Can you put an FC starter on a 12A??
 

This is probably going to be a really quick and easy one but I couldn't find anything after searching. I have read that some guys are using FC starters on their FBs. Can you only use an FC starter on GSL-SE's? Or is it possible to put an FC starter on a 12A FB as well? I don't like the outdated weak cranking of my stoneaged 83 FB starter and thought about getting an FC one if possible. The FB starters also sound like junk when they are cranking. Anything I can do to make this car sound newer and more modern, I am up for. This restoration project is like my child and I want the best for it. :D

I have an 85 GS 5 spd. with 12A and the RB light steel flywheel. Is it possible to use an FC starter or can it only be done on other 13B's? Thanks fellas!

as long as it's an FC NA one it should work.

So as long as I get a starter off of a N/A FC it will work on my 12A FB?? I really hope this is true. There is nothing I love more than a good junkyard upgrade... :D More opinions please!

If it will bolt up, and it starts the car when the key is turned, then it will probably work. LOL.

Good luck, and let us know please.....:)

Lol... thanks a lot. :D I guess I'll be the guinea pig on this. I can get a starter for $20-30 from a junkyard. Let's just hope that it works out okay. It will be a pretty expensive way to find out they aren't compatible if it doesn't...

actually, I just think of it... I have one in my car ;)
engine is a TII 13B, but box is a 1985 from a 12A powered car (no 13B first gens have been available in europe) and the lightwheight flywheel is for 12A/13B NA. So yes: it will work on a 12A.

So that begs the question:

Is there any advantage to running a second gen N/A starter over the stock 1st gen starter... Or are they the same animal?

Jon

I think they *might* have more torque, or speed up higher. The FC starters are different in such that they have a gearing incorporated, it must be of some use.

All I had to do to use an FC NA starter on my REPU ribcase tranny was to remove some of the casting flash inside the hole. It seems the nose cones on the FC starters are a little thicker.

The sound of the FC starters is a bit different (peejay doesn't like them), but they are nice and light and can spin the engine just as fast as a heavy REPU starter. The smaller overall size also increases installation possiblilities. For instance, my 13B MG Midget project has an FC NA starter which can be removed and installed with about 2mm or 3mm to spare. :D

So they are of the high torque variety.

If you want a modern sound, go see your dealer and have a look at an RX-8 starter. Those things have a great start-up sound.